Obituaries

Michael Dreistadt, Jr., age 89, a lifelong resident of Old Forge, died Sunday, at the VA Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre. He is survived by his loving wife, Lois Miller Dreistadt. The couple celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary on April 20th.
Born on December 21, 1924, son of the late Michael, Sr., and Laura Francis Dreistadt, Michael attended Old Forge High School. As a youth, he competed for the Soap Box Derby National Championship in Akron, Ohio, after winning the Scranton circuit’s title. A decorated Veteran of WWII, he was a member of the Navy Seabees, earning the Philippine Liberation, Pacific Theater and American Theater Ribbons and the WWII Victory Medal for his service to the country. A mechanic, he had invented the operating machines for the former Moosic Machine Shop, and more recently, Glenwood Products. Having a devoted faith to Jesus, he was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church in Old Forge. An outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. A carpenter and craftsman, he enjoyed woodworking as a pastime, and he was an animal lover who adored his dogs. He will be forever missed by those who loved him.
He is survived by his children, Bonnie Rosania of Duryea, and Michael Dreistadt, III, and wife Jeanne of Moosic; four grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Sisters, Naomi Tucker, Alice Blackwell and Theo Abate, also preceded him in death.
Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday at the First United Methodist Church, 143 Harrison Street in Old Forge, to be co-conducted by Rev. Susan Zimmerman, Pastor, and Rev. Harriet Santos, former Pastor. Interment with full military rites by the AMVETS Honor Guard will follow at Marcy Cemetery in Duryea. Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Thursday from 11:00AM until services at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Michael’s name to the First United Methodist Church, 143 Harrison Street, Old Forge, 18518.
Arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge.